Bears-Browns preview: How many offensive linemen will the Bears carry?

The Bears were fortunate to have great health along the offensive line throughout the 2013 season. They didn’t have to dig into their bag of reserves and juggle multiple groups. That’s not always going to be the case, as we’ve learned in the past, so it’s important for the Bears to get the depth chart right.

The team carried 9 offensive linemen after final cutdown last year, and I expect them to keep 9 or 10 this year depending on needs at other positions.

Brian de la Puente, the once-likely backup center, suffered a Grade 2 left MCL sprain in the preseason opener against the Eagles and has been sidelined since. Likewise, Eben Britton, who saw playing time last year as a swing tackle and extra blocker, tweaked his hamstring but he returned to practice this week.

Michael Ola has looked good for the Bears throughout training camp and has a good chance to make the roster. If I had to pick one or two of the remaining players to make the roster, I’d lean toward rookie Charles Leno Jr. and/or Taylor Boggs.